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The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC–PA) requires all physician assistants to hold a master's degree, graduate from an ARC–PA accredited PA program, and adhere to state licensing requirements.
How long it takes to become a physician assistant depends on what education and professional experience you have, and your state's licensing requirements.
High School Graduates
It takes about six to eight years coming out of high school to become a physician assistant.
Several colleges offer accelerated physician assistant programs to high school students. These programs allow you to earn a bachelor's degree, a master's degree, and complete the PA program in five to six years.
Requirements to enroll in a traditional PA program may include:
- A baccalaureate degree
- Completed prerequisites
- Professional healthcare experience
Learn specific program requirements by visiting the Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA) website which lists ARC–PA accredited PA programs.
College Graduates
It takes two to five years to become a physician assistant if you have earned your bachelor's degree.
The time it takes for a college graduate to become a physician assistant depends on if a certain amount of professional healthcare experience is required before enrolling in a PA program. Physician assistant programs take a little over two years to complete.
Examination Requirements
You must pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) administered by the National Commission of Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) to apply for state licensing.
Students who have graduated from an ARC–PA accredited PA program can take the PANCE exam. It takes about two weeks to receive your results. Visit the NCCPA website for information on maintaining your certification.
State License Requirements
Most states take about four to eight weeks to process applications for PA state licensing.
Some states allow you to expedite the state licensing process by providing explanations and documentation. Visit your state's official website for more information on PA license requirements.
